The first step is planning for the year ahead. Start by thinking through the process with these tips.

Set a communications goal and measurable objectives that align with company goals. By identifying the goal and objectives in the beginning, you’ll be able to determine the most effective strategy and approach to achieve the results you want.

Determining potential challenges or barriers. Trust us, knowing the key barriers up front will allow you time to brainstorm potential solutions for overcoming challenges, and ultimately lead to success.

Identify potential story angles and leverage all communications channels. Thinking through these timely news hooks and mediagenic stories ahead of time will provide you a steady stream of proactive content. These can be important events, company milestones, announcements, etc. Ensure all your paid, earned, shared and owned channels work together – like amplifying the credibility of a news placement with a paid social boost. This ensures you are reaching your audience with the most compelling stories.

Have questions about storytelling and communications planning? Take Padilla’s Storytelling Readiness Quiz. When you’ve completed the review, you’ll get a readiness score – and the option to participate in a one-hour complimentary consultation.